Melbourne Heart Sign Orlando Engelaar

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Former Schalke man joins John Aloisi’s squad

After a recent influx of Dutch defenders into the A-League the Orange revolution is moving further up the pitch, with 33-year-old central midfielder Orlando Engelaar joining Melbourne Heart.

Engelaar came through the Feyenoord Academy and has had stints at FC Twente and PSV Eindhoven.

The commanding midfielder has also represented his country in Euro 2008, when Marc Van Basten’s side ran riot against Italy and France before losing to Russia in the Quarter-finals.

Speaking to Football Australia the Dutchman explained just why he chose Melbourne: “When Melbourne Heart came in they intrigued me with what they wanted, so I wanted to be a part of that.

“They showed me they really wanted me, they made me see I could be important in areas for the other boys and bring something extra to the team.

“That’s what really excited me, I wanted to be a part of that. I’ve got a lot of responsibility with the team, to help the guys, so I want to do well.”

Heart Coach John Aloisi praised the Dutchman’s abilities: ” We know his qualities; even though he’s a big boy, he’s very good on the ball.

“His touch is good and he knows the right decision to make; when to play a through ball or when to keep it.”

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